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PIANO LESSONS FOR ALL AGES

Qualified and Registered Piano Teacher

Lessons are currently full, click here to join the waiting list!

ISM Registered Piano Teacher

MICHAEL MCGREGOR

DipLCM(TD), UMTC, TMC, MISM

I am a qualified and registered piano teacher based in Banff, Aberdeenshire. I have over 10+ years of experience teaching piano, having started in 2012. I teach all ages, including adults!

I take pride in teaching a diverse range of musical styles, encompassing Classical, Pop, Rock, Movie/Game soundtracks and more.

I believe in taking a student-centred approach to teaching. As well as my own primary goals for students to achieve in their lessons, It’s also important for students to have autonomy over their own learning. By customising their lessons and offering flexibility, students are encouraged to explore and advance in their own unique ways, ensuring their engagement as they grow into skilled musicians.

This approach is particularly helpful when teaching neurodivergent students. I have obtained basic qualifications and have a lot of experience teaching students with Dyslexia, ADHD & ASD etc.

I do also offer the option for students to sit Graded Music Exams, for those who wish to do so. Though these are entirely optional and not fundamental for a student to succeed. My teaching philosophy places emphasis on a comprehensive curriculum that extends beyond exam material. However, I do utilise it as a foundational framework, providing a seamless transition for students who choose to pursue exams. My preferred exam board, RSL (Rockschool) not only offers a Contemporary/Popular Music syllabus but also a Classical Piano syllabus for those who prefer a classical approach. Alternatively, there are other exam boards such as the MTB, LCME and Trinity College to find the best fit for the student!

I aim for my website to be as informative as possible, but should you have any questions or if there's anything not covered here, please do not hesitate to get in touch!

Get in touch!

ISM Registered Private Teacher

"Individuals listed as ISM Registered Private Teachers have been through a stringent vetting process to demonstrate that they are professionally qualified, experienced music teachers who are not included on the barred lists maintained by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or similar lists in Scotland."

- ISM Music Directory

You can view my ISM Music Directory Profile here!

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Qualifications

Qualifications

HND Higher National Diploma Music

LCME Diploma in Pianoforte Teaching (DipLCM(TD))

TMC TopMusic Teacher Certification (TMC)

UMT Music Theory Teacher Certification (UMTC)

MTB Grade 5 Music Theory (Distinction)

CPD Qualifications (QLS Accredited)

ADHD Awareness (QLS Level 3)

Diploma in Understanding Dyslexia (QLS Level 3)

Diploma in Child Psychology (QLS Level 3)

Other

Child Protection Awareness in Music (NSPCC)

ISM

Registered Private Teacher

The Independant Society of Musicians (ISM) is the UK’s professional body for musicians.

TopMusic

Certified Teacher

TopMusic.co is the world’s leading educational design and networking community for instrumental music teachers.

"Our daughter is always very keen to go to her piano lessons with Michael. He's extremely patient and makes learning so much fun!"

Vicky (Parent)

"Michael is not only a great tutor but also a lovely person. Absolutely dedicated to his students, very professional but also able to make lessons fun. I'm delighted to recommend him to other parents looking for an experienced and patient tutor for their child/ren!"

Barbara (Parent)

"Motivational while fun for my 10 & 7 yr olds. Good mixture of music styles and as well as working hard in class can hear plenty of giggles."

Christine (Parent)

30min Weekly Lessons

Lesson fees are to be paid on a monthly basis by Direct Debit.

Please note that throughout music lessons, the purchase of various books/resources will be necessary. These are not included in the monthly tuition fee.

For students who wish to sit music exams, there will be an additional exam fee charged by the exam board.

Click Here for payment Info

"Professional, patient and knowledgeable teacher who has continued to develop our child’s confidence and ability. Highly recommended."

Angela (Parent)

"Absolutely amazing piano teacher. Very impressed 😀"

Umasang (Student)

"My children absolutely love their piano lessons with Michael and I have seen a huge improvement in their ability during the time they have been with him. He makes the lessons fun and the music he uses is current, tailoring the song choice to the interests and taste of each of my children."

Sarah (Parent)

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Contemporary Music Exams

Graded Music Exams are an optional part of learning an instrument. For those who wish to do so, I teach using the Rockschool (RSL) syllabus which has a strong focus on popular styles of music. Featuring music from artists such as Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Adele and many more!

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Classical Music Exams

For those who wish to take Graded Music Exams but would prefer to study using Classical styles of music, I also teach the RSL Classical syllabus!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a Piano or Keyboard?

    Yes! In order to progress (at any stage), access to a Piano/Keyboard is essential.

    A relatively basic keyboard would be acceptable for a student in their first book or first year of lessons. After that, an upgrade to a digital or acoustic piano is highly recommended.

  • What are your Qualifications?

    I have a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Music and an LCME Music Teaching Diploma (DipLCM) in teaching Piano. Both qualifications were studied at Aberdeen College. These qualifications have been verified by the ISM as part of my ISM Registered Private Teacher status.

    I also have a UMT Music Theory Teacher Certification as well as a TopMusic Teacher Certification.

    More information, including my CPD qualifications, can be found here.

  • Do you have a PVG membership?

    Yes, this is required and kept up-to-date as part of my ISM Registered Private Teacher status.

  • What is an ISM Registered Private Teacher?

    "Individuals listed as ISM Registered Private Teachers have been through a stringent vetting process to demonstrate that they are professionally qualified, experienced music teachers who are not included on the barred lists maintained by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or similar lists in Scotland."- ISM Music Directory

    You can view my ISM Music Directory profile here!

  • Do you prepare students for Graded Music Exams?

    Yes, I can. These are an entirely optional part of learning piano, though remain a popular part of instrumental lessons in the UK. I do however, limit the amount of time and focus spent on graded exams so they are not the primary goal of my lessons.

  • How do I pay for lessons?

    Lesson fees are paid monthly in advance by Direct Debit. When signing up for lessons, you will be required to set up a Direct Debit which will automatically process your lesson fees each month.

    You can find more information on pricing and payments here.